An ophthalmologist recommends five simple, science-backed habits to safeguard children’s eyesight: eat vitamin A–rich foods like carrots, play outdoors daily, limit and structure screen time, follow the 20-20-20 rule, and schedule regular eye check-ups. With rising myopia linked to digital overuse, these steps can slow progression and support lifelong eye health Hindustan Times.
With screen exposure surging among children, experts warn of rising myopia and emphasize practical, family-friendly habits to protect vision. A recent guidance highlights diet, outdoor play, and smart screen practices as core pillars, alongside routine check-ups to catch issues early and prevent progression
Notable updates
• Nutrition focus: Encourage carrots and other vitamin A–rich foods to support retinal health and overall eye function.\text{Carrots provide beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, beneficial for eye
• Outdoor time: Aim for daily outdoor play; natural light exposure is associated with lower myopia progression risk
• Screen hygiene: Cap screen time, avoid devices before bed, and maintain proper viewing distance and lighting to reduce eye strain
• 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to ease digital eye fatigue
• Regular check-ups: Annual eye exams help detect refractive errors early, especially in families with a history of vision issues
Major takeaways
• Balanced routine works: Combining nutrition, outdoor play, and structured screen habits offers a practical defense against myopia
• Prevention first: Small daily changes can meaningfully reduce eye strain and slow progression in at-risk children
Sources: Hindustan Times, The Health Site,